Villanova
Welcome to Villanova: a small hillside hamlet in the province of Perugia
Villanova is a small hillside hamlet that is part of the municipality of Marsciano, in the province of Perugia. With its 387 inhabitants, this charming hamlet has seen its population grow in recent years, thanks to the arrival of new families from Perugia and nearby hamlets. In this article, I will talk about the history of Villanova, its geographical location, the economic activities that take place in the village, its places of interest, and the sports activities that are held there.
History: an ancient castle and underground tunnels
Villanova has a long history that begins in 1060 when its name appears for the first time in a document referring to a castle. Of the ancient building, only a few vestiges remain, such as some portions of the walls and a building from the 15th century with brick arches. In the village, some Roman artifacts and an amphora dating back to the 6th century BC were also found, coming from an Etruscan tomb.
An interesting feature of the village is the underground tunnels that still connect some of the houses. Probably built during World War I as a hiding place and "secret passage" between houses, they were then adapted in some houses as cellars or "natural refrigerators". Although currently partly closed and partly flooded, they are still partially accessible from the houses involved in the "network". An access from the main street of the village has been reopened and illuminated and is visible through bulletproof glass along the sidewalk of the central street of the hamlet.
Geographical location
Villanova is located along the road connecting the "Settevalli" provincial road and the "Marscianese" provincial road. Its hillside location offers spectacular views of the surroundings, thanks to the lush vegetation and breathtaking sunsets that can be admired every day.
Economy: a flourishing agriculture and a historic artisanal activity
The economy of Villanova is essentially agricultural, with the cultivation of soft wheat, barley, corn, sunflowers, fava beans, and vegetables, as well as the breeding of cattle and pigs. In addition, the village hosts an artisanal workshop for leather and knitwear processing, which produces high-quality garments on behalf of some famous fashion houses, mainly for Brunello Cucinelli. Thanks to this activity, about 60 people have employment, mainly residents in the hamlet of Villanova or in nearby villages.
Another strength of Villanova's economy is game farming, the production of indigenous wine, and a historic beekeeping activity. In addition, the village is the site of a beautiful residence/holiday home/event location.
Places of interest: an ancient church and a traditional festival
One of the most interesting places in Villanova is the parish church of S. Maria and S. Pastore, where a wooden crucifix from a Brotherhood of a church in Perugia and dating back to AD 1500 is displayed. Near the church, there is also a chapel dedicated to the fallen of the First World War, whose central nave was never realized.
During the week of Ferragosto, the "sagra dell'agnello scottadito e dei prodotti tipici umbri" ("sagra of grilled lamb and typical Umbrian products") is organized in the village, once known as the "sagra della macedonia" ("sagra of fruit salad"), inaugurated in 1987. The organization of the event is managed by the pro loco Villanova, in which the whole community participates actively and voluntarily.
Sports: a football tradition that made history
The football tradition of Villanova began in the 1970s when the parish priest Don Primo Alberati founded the first local football team. In 2001, the Associazione Sportiva Dilettantistica Villabiagio, representing also the nearby hamlet of San Biagio della Valle, made its debut. This association played its matches at the sports field of Villanova and participated in Serie D for many years, becoming a pride for the local community. Unfortunately, in the summer of 2018, the Villabiagio had to cease its sports activity, but the passion for football continues to animate the young people of the village.
Conclusions
Villanova is a charming hamlet that offers numerous opportunities for leisure and relaxation. Thanks to its geographical location, its agricultural and artisanal economy, and its charming history, it has become a sought-after destination for tourists who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of Umbria. If you are looking for a break from the hectic city life, Villanova is the right place for you!
